Warm summer nights, while perfect for outdoor activities, can often disrupt our sleep. During warmer months, it's tempting to crank up the air conditioning to achieve the ideal sleeping temperature (between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit). However, this can lead to higher energy bills. So, how can you ensure a cool and comfortable sleep environment without breaking the bank?

Instead of relying solely on air conditioning, consider using a fan. Whether it's a ceiling fan, a box fan, or a pedestal fan, these can create a refreshing cross breeze or push hot air upwards. Plus, the gentle hum of a fan can be soothing and help you drift off to sleep.

Choose cotton sheets instead of silk, satin, flannel, or jersey. The lightweight material promotes ventilation and airflow in the bedroom. Better yet, choose light-colored sheets that won’t hold in heat.

Close the blinds and curtains to help lower a room's temperature. Having another barrier between the window and the room helps keep out sunlight and heat. Doing this during the day, especially if your bedroom receives the afternoon sun, provides even better results than only closing them at night. This simple step can make a significant difference in your sleep quality, giving you the confidence that you’ll sleep better even in warm weather.

Keep the lights off. This one may sound like a no-brainer for sleeping, but leaving the lights off during the day will keep the temperature in your bedroom consistently lower.

Don't forget to stay hydrated. Tossing and turning in the heat can lead to dehydration, which can further disrupt your sleep. A glass of water (eight ounces) before bed can help you stay cool and minimize nighttime disturbances.

Your mattress can also help you stay cool throughout the night. Selecting a mattress made with cooling technology will help lower your body temperature and prepare you for better sleep. If you sleep hot, this is a great feature all year round. If you’re not a hot sleeper, the cooling technology in the Tempur-Breeze® only draws away excess heat without leaving you uncomfortably cold.

Find a store near you to learn more about cooling options that will work best for you. With these effective solutions, you can look forward to a cooler and more restful sleep, even on the warmest nights.